Reproduced from: Guizhou Daily

On November 24, the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) concluded. During the conference, the “Beauty of Miao Embroidery Connecting Nature” cultural exhibition and sharing session, co-hosted by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guizhou International Communication Center, BRICS IDEAS and GuoAXin “Guizhou Village Runway Show”, was successfully held in Baku, Azerbaijan. The event, which included performances at the conference exhibition area and the old town of Baku, featured Miao embroidery displays, the singing of ancient Miao songs, and Lusheng dance performances. These cultural activities closely linked traditional Chinese Miao culture with international environmental protection issues, telling the story of the harmonious coexistence between the Chinese people and nature. The event attracted nearly 1,000 attendees from over 100 countries.

In the green zone of COP29, ten models from the “Guizhou Village Runway Show” from Qiandongnan Prefecture were surrounded by a captivated audience. These models were not only performers but also inheritors of Miao folk art. They showcased exquisite handmade Miao embroidery garments, sang ancient Miao songs, played Lusheng (a traditional bamboo pipe instrument), and performed traditional Miao Dance. The wonderful performances and graceful songs recreated the idyllic lifestyle of the Miao people living in harmony with nature, presenting a vibrant picture of the Chinese people’s coexistence with the environment. During the event, Mehriban and Suleymanova had the opportunity to try on traditional Miao attire, learn Miao embroidery techniques. They gained a deeper understanding of the history and cultural heritage of this ancient craft, as well as its sustainable development philosophy.

The concept of “Everything Has a Spirit” is an ancient Miao belief that all things possess a soul, reflecting the Miao people’s reverence for and admiration of nature. It emphasizes the protection of nature and the return to natural harmony. This philosophy is deeply embedded in Miao culture and is an integral part of their way of life and artistic creation.

During the exchange, the “Everything Has a Spirit” Miao embroidery work, co-created by the Miao embroidery ladies from Guizhou Village T, was unveiled. The piece combines iconic Azerbaijani landmarks with traditional Miao floral and bird patterns, stitching together a scene of cultural connection, mutual respect between civilizations, and harmony between nature and humankind. This artwork not only symbolizes the profound friendship between China and Azerbaijan, two nations along the ancient Silk Road, but also conveys the shared vision of both countries in promoting ecological protection and sustainable development.

The event also featured a flash performance in Baku’s old town, where Miao cultural art was integrated into the local street scenery, attracting the enthusiastic participation of citizens and tourists. In the sunset, a young Azerbaijani violinist played a beautiful melody under the Maiden Tower, while Guizhou Miao girls, dressed in Miao attire, danced gracefully to the music, creating a moving scene of cultural fusion between China and Azerbaijan. During their interaction with the artists, COP29 organizing committee member Sama Mehdiyeva told the reporter that she felt not only the charm of traditional Chinese ethnic culture but also the profound meaning of respecting nature, following its rhythm, and achieving harmony between humanity and the environment.

This cross-cultural exchange was not only a feast of mutual learning between civilizations but also demonstrated how Miao culture can merge with the green development principles of modern society, guiding the world toward a more sustainable future.